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Make This Cheesy Beef Bowtie Pasta Tonight!

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This comforting dish features tender bowtie pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce infused with savory garlic butter. Lean ground beef is browned and simmered with aromatic ingredients, then combined with the al dente pasta and a blend of cheeses, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and color to this classic family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-Monterey Jack blend)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and butter to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until your desired consistency is reached.
  7. Add the cooked and drained bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the cheesy beef sauce.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

For an even richer sauce, consider using whole milk or a small amount of heavy cream.

Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor for this dish.

Any medium-sized pasta shape, such as penne or rotini, can be used as a substitute for bowtie pasta.

If the sauce thickens upon standing, a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water can help restore its creamy texture.

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